Undergrad Compatible observables and commutator

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SUMMARY

The discussion confirms that the commutator being zero for two operators is equivalent to stating that the two observables are compatible. This relationship is fundamental in quantum mechanics, where compatibility of observables indicates that they can be simultaneously measured without uncertainty. The clarity of this relationship is essential for understanding quantum systems and their behavior.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of quantum mechanics principles
  • Familiarity with operators in quantum mechanics
  • Knowledge of commutators and their significance
  • Concept of observables in quantum theory
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the mathematical formulation of commutators in quantum mechanics
  • Explore the implications of compatible observables on measurement theory
  • Investigate specific examples of compatible and incompatible observables
  • Learn about the role of operators in quantum state evolution
USEFUL FOR

Quantum physicists, students of quantum mechanics, and anyone interested in the foundational principles of quantum theory.

Haynes Kwon
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Is commutator being zero for two operators the same statement as the two observables are compatible?
 
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Haynes Kwon said:
Is commutator being zero for two operators the same statement that the two observables are compatible?

Yes.
 
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Time reversal invariant Hamiltonians must satisfy ##[H,\Theta]=0## where ##\Theta## is time reversal operator. However, in some texts (for example see Many-body Quantum Theory in Condensed Matter Physics an introduction, HENRIK BRUUS and KARSTEN FLENSBERG, Corrected version: 14 January 2016, section 7.1.4) the time reversal invariant condition is introduced as ##H=H^*##. How these two conditions are identical?

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